Analysis and news: metrics
How efficient tools showcase a library’s impact Many libraries have had to strengthen their digital presence to survive, especially over the last 12 months, writes Cintia Dabes
The digital revolution has changed the relationship between libraries/librarians and end-users. Part of making libraries accessible and
effective is to install tools that allow them to demonstrate and monitor the library’s impact on its users. Whether reporting is a monthly, quarterly or annual requirement, having clear and consistent metrics offer clear insight into usage patterns and behaviours. OpenAthens’ Reporting API is just
one example. This new feature allows librarians to easily extract their patron- usage data into existing data visualisation software, such as Tableau or Power BI, enhancing their capabilities to make data- based decisions for the benefit of their organisations. The reporting tools help information managers and librarians easily demonstrate the value of the library to internal stakeholders in a visual format. By generating customisable reports on usage and access, these features help highlight relevant data to the institution and showcase the impact of the library in a clear, concise way.
Key benefits of using a reporting tool for tangible metrics A library that invests in a reporting tool will instantly be able to present reports with enhanced visual graphics that communicate value with internal stakeholders in a more effective, accessible format. This type of highly customised reporting allows librarians and information managers to focus on specific data that is relevant to their institution. There is also the option to integrate
reporting tools with other data analytics software, such as Tableau, for a seamless experience with other systems used in the organisation. Some of the key benefits for measurement include: • Customisable reporting; • Reports in an easy to digest/visual format for all stakeholders;
• Reports can be scheduled for certain times/dates;
22 Research Information May/June 2021
• Data attributes; • Account reports; and • Resource access reports.
Challenges libraries and librarians are facing
With all implementation efforts there are bound to be some hiccups along the way. Firstly, it is best to acknowledge them so you are better prepared to face whatever might happen. The OpenAthens team talked to some
library customers and asked about the challenges they are facing while using or implementing reporting tools for clearer metrics and results. Overall, feedback showed that organisations using the features find it useful. However, some librarians had found it difficult in getting detailed patron usage stats on specific data to negotiate better deals with publishers, as well as gathering specific data to understand which subscriptions deliver most value for money, so that informed decisions on budget allocation could be made. OpenAthens is currently working
through these challenges with customers.
Leeds Beckett University One organisation that brought on- board OpenAthens’ reporting tool to enhance reporting and metric usage was Leeds Beckett University. Samantha Heeson, electronic and data services librarian, explained the process that the organisation had to go through. Leeds Beckett University has two
library sites; one in Leeds city centre the other at its Headingley campus. The library has almost 100 staff across the locations, facilitating library services for more than 19,000 students. The analytics development process was iterative, consisting of several soft launches rather than a main one. The library was initially a little overwhelmed with the possibilities that the data insight brought, and what they could do with it. Heeson, therefore, set to work on
a proof of concept tying together OpenAthens and university data using Excel data models and pivots. Her team were excited to see the results.
“These features help highlight relevant data to the institution”
Library inductions were used as an opportunity to track the impact on resource usage for a particular course. As the data received from OpenAthens was at that stage monthly, the impact of the induction was hard to see, as it needed a longer time span. Still, the exercise was helpful to pull data in an applied scenario. Heeson then shifted her focus to annual
reporting. She was able to produce tables and charts showing which resources were used, how often, at which part of the year and how many students were interacting with them. The data showed immediate trends, matching the academic year and pattern the university would expect. It also revealed anomalies that could be taken away and investigated. The exercise also suggested where more promotion
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